Old Man of Hoy
This is one of the best one-day hikes in Scotland. Catch a ferry to get you across to the isle of Hoy where you’re able to walk along some of Scotland’s highest sea cliffs. This hike takes you uphill from Rackwick along a well-defined and easy to follow path towards the UK’s tallest sea stack – the Old Man rising out of the water to a whopping 450ft. On clearer days atop the cliffs you can see all the way to Cape Wrath.
Old Man of Hoy, Orkney
Stac Pollaidh
Standing at 613 metres high (2,008ft in old money), Stac Pollaidh is known as one of Scotland’s ‘little mountains’. The peak of the hill has often been likened to a porcupine due to its rocky crest. The hike takes around 3 hours, climbing up the winding pathway to reach the summit. Its wilderness and panoramic views across the mountains make for an incredible hiking experience.
Stac Pollaidh, Assynt
Muckle Flugga
Muckle Flugga sits on the northern coast of Scotland – and is the most northern point in the British Isles – and makes up part of Unst in the Shetland Isles. It’s the perfect place for getting back to nature. Above Muckle Flugga is the Hermaness National Nature Reserve, where many seabirds choose to nest. As well as plenty of seabirds, an hour’s walk from the visitor centre will give you views of incredible plant and marine life.
Muckle Flugga, Unst, Shetland
Loch an Eilein
The hike at Loch an Eilein follows a low route around the loch and is perfect for families. Deep in the Rothiemurchus forest, this hike is sheltered by the beautiful Caledonian pines and is accompanied by lovely views of a 13th century island castle. Along your walk, keep an eye out for wildlife, including red squirrels. Alongside the hike, there’s plenty of other activities around the hiking spot including mountain biking and visiting the UK’s highest funicular railway.
Loch an Eilein, Cairngorm National Park
The Scottish National Trail
The Scottish National Trail is one of the country’’s most challenging hikes. If you’re looking for a hiking staycation, try to take on the full 864 kilometre (537 mile) trail that runs the length of Scotland – it’s certainly a mission for avid hikers with plenty of time on their hands to complete the walk in stages. The trail is relatively straightforward and follows long-established footpaths, taking in some well-known paths along the way including the West Highland Way. The trail becomes increasingly difficult as it heads further north and finishes up with some challenging terrain but is well worth the effort with some stunning views and plenty to explore.
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